


Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
About
Step back in time at Andrew Jackson's Hermitage, where history comes alive for families on this sprawling 1,120-acre presidential estate. Kids can explore the mansion where America's 7th president lived, wander through beautiful gardens, and engage with interactive exhibits that make early American history tangible and exciting for young learners.
Highlights
- ✓Touring President Andrew Jackson's restored 1821 mansion with period furnishings
- ✓Exploring the historic gardens and walking trails across the beautiful estate grounds
- ✓Learning about enslaved communities through exhibits at Alfred's Cabin and the Field Quarter
- ✓Visiting Andrew Jackson's tomb in the garden
- ✓Interactive exhibits in the visitor center that bring 1800s history to life
Pro Tips
- 1.Start with the visitor center's orientation film to give kids context before touring the mansion,it helps the experience make more sense to younger visitors
- 2.Pick up the family activity guide at admission for scavenger hunt-style activities that keep kids engaged throughout the property
- 3.Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll cover significant ground between the mansion, slave cabins, gardens, and Jackson's tomb
- 4.Visit the First Hermitage site and Alfred's Cabin for important discussions about the enslaved people who lived and worked on the property
- 5.Allow extra time for the wagon rides (when available) and exploring the grounds,kids often enjoy the outdoor portions more than just the mansion tour
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings (9:00-11:00 AM) are least crowded, especially Tuesday through Thursday. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the extensive grounds, and the gardens are particularly beautiful during these seasons.
What to Know
Admission includes mansion tours, grounds access, and all exhibits. The property is mostly wheelchair accessible, though some historic buildings have limited access. The museum store and visitor center have restrooms and water fountains, but bring snacks as food options on-site are limited.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. Spring garden blooms (March-May) are spectacular. Summer can be hot and humid for extensive outdoor walking. December features special holiday decorations and candlelight tours that older children may enjoy.
Nearby Eats
Head to nearby Hermitage for family-friendly options like Cracker Barrel (5 minutes away) for classic comfort food, or Chick-fil-A for quick, easy meals. For a sit-down experience, try Nashville Biscuit House about 10 minutes away for Southern favorites that kids typically enjoy.
More Activities Near Hermitage
Hermitage Park Drive
Hermitage Park Drive offers families a classic neighborhood park experience with plenty of space for kids to run, play, and explore. With well-maintained playgrounds, shaded walking trails, and spacious open fields, it's an ideal spot for everything from toddler playtime to family picnics and outdoor games.
Cane Ridge Park
Cane Ridge Park is a spacious community park in Hermitage that delivers everything families need for a perfect day outdoors. The well-maintained playgrounds cater to multiple age groups, while the splash pad provides refreshing fun during warm months, and the paved walking paths are perfect for strollers, bikes, and scooters.
Nashville Public Library Hermitage Branch
The Nashville Public Library Hermitage Branch is a welcoming community hub that goes beyond books, offering families an excellent resource for learning and entertainment. With an extensive children's section, regular storytimes, and year-round educational programs, it's a perfect free activity that keeps kids engaged while fostering a love of reading and learning.
Long Hunter State Park
Long Hunter State Park is a sprawling 2,600-acre outdoor playground along Percy Priest Lake, perfect for families who love nature and adventure. With easy hiking trails suitable for little legs, a dedicated swimming beach, excellent fishing spots, and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, it's an ideal escape from Nashville's bustle just 20 minutes east of downtown.